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Friday, February 6, 2015

Activists seek law against tethering dogs in yards

TOP: Organizers of Humane Lobby Day at the Arizona State Capitol brought
Spencer to bolster their case for a state law against tethering dogs
with chains and ropes. They say Spencer spent more than a year tethered
to a tree by a 4-foot chain before a a neighbor rescued the dog.
(Cronkite News Photo by Mackenzie Concepcion) BOTTOM: Organizers of Humane Lobby Day at the Arizona State Capitol brought
Blanca and Spencer (facing away) to bolster their case for a state law
against tethering dogs with chains and ropes. They say Spencer spent
more than a year tethered to a tree by a 4-foot chain before a a
neighbor rescued the dog. (Cronkite News Photo by Mackenzie Concepcion)

By MACKENZIE CONCEPCIONCronkite News

PHOENIX – These two dogs, Spencer and Blanca, once spent their lives
on the ends of chains, exposed to the elements and deprived of human
interaction, water and medical attention.

On Wednesday, rescued and now thriving, they were outside the State
Capitol as animal rights advocates called for a law against tethering
dogs and other companion animals.

The dogs sat in front of the Arizona Capitol Wednesday for Humane
Lobby Day, organized by the Humane Society of the United States,
connecting activists with lawmakers, lobbyists and constituents.

Amanda Schlichting, the group’s state director, said Spencer and Blanca’s stories are all too common in Arizona.

“As a former police officer, I can tell you I saw this day in and day
out: dogs on chains in 115 degrees with no access to water,” she said.

Schlichting said her group has teamed up with Rep. Jay Lawrence,
R-Scottsdale, to introduce a bill that would establish a statewide ban
on tethering dogs. The bill hadn’t yet been introduced as of Wednesday,
but she said she expected to see it soon.

“It’s going to create a minimum standard for dogs who are living outside,” Schlichting said.

Tom Krepitch, district leader volunteer for the group, said dogs on
chains usually develop behavioral problems and are more likely to bite
people.

“It’s really not the dog, it’s the person treating them that way,” he said.

But Krepitch said Spencer and Blanca’ friendliness shows dogs can
recover from harsh treatment. He said they demonstrate what a difference
people can make by rescuing just one dog.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 25 states
and the District of Columbia have laws that prohibit tethering dogs
unless a human is holding the other end.

The Humane Society of the United States is also pushing for support
of a bill by Sen. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills that would tighten
language concerning animal cruelty, require repeat violators to be
charged with felony penalties and offer opportunities for psychological
evaluations of animal abusers at their own expense.

Schlichting said the SB 1265 would strengthen existing cruelty codes.

“We have really good laws in Arizona for animal cruelty. But, like
anything else, there’s always room for improvement,” she said.

Dozens turned out for the event. Schlichting said the turnout shows that Arizona is filled with animal lovers.

“We’re here to be a strong, unified voice and let them know that
animal legislation and animal protection is really important to all of
us,” she said.

POSITIONS ON PENDING BILLS

The Humane Society of the United States used its Humane Lobby Day to advocate its position on these bills:Supports

SB 1265• Summary: Would create definition for acceptable food, water and
shelter, requires repeat violators to be charged with felony penalties,
allows psychological evaluations of animal abusers at their own expense.• Author: Sen. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills.• Status: Yet to be heard in committee.Anti-tether legislation• Summary: The group seeks a state ban on tethering dogs that would have
exemptions for temporary tie-ups while the dog is in the presence of
the owner as well as hunting, camping, herding and transport.• Author: TBD• Status: Not yet introduced

1 comment:

Jean Hauser
said...

Why even have a dog if you leave it tied up in the yard? For that matter, why have a dog if you are not prepared to give it humane, loving care? Animal abuse must be treated as a crime and punished accordingly. I certainly hope this bill will become law.

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